Episode Details

We're wrapping up 2025 with a big, bookish bow! In this year-end celebration, Joe is joined by Carmen, Cece, Jananie K. Velu, Kayla, and Meara as everyone brings two of their favorite reads of the entire year. From unforgettable characters to gasp-worthy plots, these are the books that rose straight to the top of our 2025 lists.  

Whether you're building your 2026 TBR or reliving your favorite reads of the year, settle in — this is the coziest way to close out the season. 

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Running now through January 5. We want to hear from you! 

Survey link: https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8564187/2025-Book-Lounge-Listener-Survey  

Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel! 

Guest host recommendations: 

Carmen 

• Poppy State: A Labyrinth of Plants and a Story of Beginnings - Myriam Gurba 

• The Possession of Alba Diaz - Isabel Canas 

Cece 

• Listen to Your Sister – Neena Viel 

• The Luis Ortega Survival Club – Sonora Reyes 

Jananie 

• Dust Settles North – Deena ElGenaidi 

• Immaculate Conception – Ling Ling Huang 

Kayla 

• Julie Chan is Dead- Liann Zhang 

• The Compound- Aisling Rawle 

Meara 

• Girl Dinner – Olivie Blake 

• Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng - Kylie Lee Baker 

Joe  

• When the Wolf Comes Home – Nat Cassidy  

• Victorian Psycho – Virginia Feito 

• Hungerstone – Kat Dunn 

 Follow the guests & guest hosts:  

• Carmen – link 

• Cece - link 

• Jananie K. Velu – link 

• Kayla - link 

• Meara – 

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